Welcome to Waterfront Montessori

Dear Families,

As parents and guardians, you know how much thought and care go into choosing the right school. You weigh questions about curriculum, fit, philosophy, and preparation for the future, all while trying to imagine the kind of fully developed human your children will become. In doing so, you are not just selecting a school, you are choosing a community that will nurture your child’s curiosity, character, and capacity to thrive. It is a decision shaped by both head and heart, one that reflects your deepest hopes for who your child will be in the world.

I am honored to step into the role of Head of School at Waterfront Montessori. I do so with deep respect for the vision on which this community was built. Our founder, Karen Westman, began this school as a parent searching for the best for her own child, a search that led her to Montessori and as her son aged, the International Baccalaureate Middle Years (IB MYP) program. Her determination created not only a school for her son but an environment where countless children and adolescents have thrived, from their first days as toddlers through their middle school years.

In a time when the world is changing rapidly, Montessori partnered with IB MYP education continues to prepare children not just to “get ahead,” but to be themselves, think deeply, act with integrity, and approach challenges with creativity and joy. It cultivates independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning, qualities that will serve your children wherever life takes them.

At Waterfront Montessori, agency, respect, character, and social solidarity are visible every day. We see these community attributes when a toddler confidently chooses their work, when an elementary student makes a discovery that lights them up, and when an adolescent leads a novel project that inspires their peers. These are not accidents; they are the result of intentional, high-fidelity Montessori and IB practice carried out by dedicated adults in an environment designed for fulfillment and flourishing for all.

I invite you to visit us, to see our classrooms in action, and to experience our unique spirit. Whether you are just beginning your Montessori journey or looking forward to your IB journey, we are here to partner with you.

Thank you for your interest in Waterfront Montessori. I look forward to meeting you and sharing more about what makes this place so special.

Sincerely,

Natalie Baginski